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CUSMA Review 2026: What Happens on July 1 — and What It Means for Your Wallet

The trade deal that governs nearly $1.3 trillion in Canada-U.S. commerce is up for review in less than a week. Here's what's at stake for Canadian families — and how to protect your budget whatever happens next. By MoneySavings.ca Staff  |   June 25, 2026 Canada Day is almost here — and this year, July 1 carries a lot more weight than fireworks and barbecues. On that same date, Canada, the United States, and Mexico are required to sit down for the first mandatory review of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement , known in Canada as CUSMA (and in the U.S. as the USMCA). The outcome of these talks will help shape the price of your groceries, your next car payment, Canadian jobs, and the overall cost of living for years to come. If you've heard the buzz but aren't sure what it all means for your household budget, you're in the right place. Here's your plain-language breakdown. What Is CUSMA — and Why Should You Care? CUSMA replaced the old NAFTA deal in 2020 an...

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Trade War Looms: Economists Brace for Impact as Loonie Weakens


As the specter of a trade war looms large, economists and market strategists are sounding the alarm, warning of potential repercussions for the Canadian economy. The recent announcement of sweeping tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump on Canadian goods has sent shockwaves through financial markets, causing the Canadian dollar, or "loonie," to slide to its lowest level since 2003.

Top economists predict that if the tariff war persists, Canada's economy could face its most severe shock since the COVID-19 pandemic. The loonie's decline is expected to exacerbate inflationary pressures and increase the unemployment rate, potentially pushing the economy into a recession. 

Chief Economist Beata Caranci and Senior Economist James Orlando anticipate a "sharp negative reaction" in North American equity markets and further weakening of the loonie, which could drop as low as 65 US cents. The Bank of Canada may be forced to cut interest rates to mitigate the economic impact.

As the situation unfolds, market strategists advise investors to brace for volatility and consider safe-haven assets to weather the storm. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether negotiations can avert a full-blown trade war and stabilize the loonie.




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